2 face charges in party investigation

Two Ringling men have been charged with felony counts of knowingly furnishing alcohol to minors in the wake of a party advertised as Project Mud Creek.

Ashton Phillip Wade, 19, and Sonny Stewart, 22, were each charged in district court following an investigation by the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department, with assistance from District 6 Assistant District Attorney Carrie Hixon.

The sheriff's department stated in a press release that the investigation began the night of July 6. Sheriff Michael Bryant said in the release that the department responded to a large party from which Southern Oklahoma Ambulance Service had taken a number of juveniles to Mercy Hospital Healdton.

The press release indicated that, through preliminary investigations, it was found that Wade and Stewart had organized the party. It was also found that Wade provided the location, and both had sold wristbands for "all you can drink" beer and alcohol.

The release said the Oklahoma Highway Patrol assisted with the initial call and was stationed on the public roadway to confirm people leaving the party were not intoxicated and driving.

"The Jefferson County Sheriff's Department appreciates the assistance provided by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the District Attorney's Office during the preliminary and ongoing investigations," Bryant said. "Anyone with more information regarding this or any other crime, please contact the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department at (580) 228-2375."